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Background: Approximately, 80% of civilian cranial gunshot injuries in India are mainly due to unlicensed mostly country-made guns, called the "Desi-Kattas," manufactured by the traditional gunsmiths. These injuries constitute a unique subgroup, with respect to the make and design along with the unique wound ballistics compared to the factory-made firearms., Objective: This study is aimed at defining the prognostic factors in predicting the outcomes related to cranial gunshot injuries due to these desi-kattas., Methods: Ten patients with kata-related cranial gunshot injury underwent surgical intervention at our institution, between 2014 and 2018. Their clinical status, imaging features, and outcomes were retrospectively analyzed., Results: Ten patients with kata-related gunshot injuries to the head were identified. Homicidal injuries were documented in six cases. Five had a GCS of 13-15 at presentation. Exit wounds were noted in 50% of the suicidal cases. Multilobar involvement was seen in 70% of cases, with the bullet crossing the midline in only 40% cases. Decompressive craniectomy was required in five cases. Eight patients had a Glasgow Outcome Score of four or more at 6 months of follow-up. There was one death during the follow-up period, while the other patient remains to be in vegetative state., Conclusion: The Katta-related cranial injuries constitute low-muzzle velocity injuries with the majority of the patients sustaining nonfatal injuries, especially homicidal. The presence of positive CT findings and the crossing of the bullet across the midline on CT brain predicts dismal prognosis. Optimal neurosurgical approach should consist of minimal local debridement and attain water seal dural closure., Competing Interests: None

A study was undertaken wherein different fingermark developers were evaluated for the recovery of fingermarks from brass cartridge cases, besides the evaluation of factors such as firing effects and surface characterization of the cases. The latent fingermarks on α-brass plates, fired and unfired cartridge cases were deposited and aged for 1-14days before development with different developers. In order to mimic the fired cartridge case conditions, the brass plates were heated and examined at room temperature (RT), at 63 and at 200°C. The sequential treatment with cyanoacrylate, gun blue and fluorescent dye has been found to be the best among other developers for the recovery of latent fingermarks on brass surfaces including fired and unfired cartridge cases. Cartridge cases and other brass surfaces were also analyzed by surface characterization methods, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electronic microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and metallographic examination. The tested surfaces correspond to α-phase brass Cu 0.7 Zn 0.3 composition and have shown different surface morphologies (such as grain structure) and different levels of oxidation, even for cartridge cases obtained from the same batch. Due to this, the effectiveness of a given reagent for a specific brass surface is uncertain. Therefore, the application of the entire tested sequence of developers is strongly recommended. Further, the effects of firing on fingermarks on cartridge cases were examined, and the results indicated that the blowback of hot gases through the looseness between cartridge case and chamber wall of the firearm is the main cause responsible for deterioration of fingermarks during firing. Despite the recognized damage caused to fingermarks by the firing effects, good quality fingermarks were recovered from fired cartridge cases in which full fingermarks were intentionally deposited prior to firing. This indicates that the handling of the cartridges before and during the loading of the gun may have a strong influence on the quantity and quality of fingermarks, and that the firing itself is not the main responsible factor for the absence or low quality of fingermarks, as frequently reported in fired cartridge cases studies., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The Congruent Matching Cells (CMC) method was invented at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for accurate firearm evidence identification and error rate estimation. The CMC method is based on the principle of discretization. The toolmark image of the reference sample is divided into correlation cells. Each cell is registered to the cell-sized area of the compared image that has maximum surface topography similarity. For each resulting cell pair, one parameter quantifies the similarity of the cell surface topography and three parameters quantify the pattern congruency of the registration position and orientation. An identification (declared match) requires a significant number of CMCs, that is, cell pairs that meet both similarity and pattern congruency requirements. The use of cell correlations reduces the effects of "invalid regions" in the compared image pairs and increases the correlation accuracy. The identification accuracy of the CMC method can be further improved by considering a feature named "convergence," that is, the tendency of the x-y registration positions of the correlated cell pairs to converge at the correct registration angle when comparing same-source samples at different relative orientations. In this paper, the difference of the convergence feature between known matching (KM) and known non-matching (KNM) image pairs is characterized, based on which an improved algorithm is developed for breech face image correlations using the CMC method. Its advantage is demonstrated by comparison with three existing CMC algorithms using four datasets. The datasets address three different brands of consecutively manufactured pistol slides, with significant differences in the distribution overlap of cell pair topography similarity for KM and KNM image pairs. For the same CMC threshold values, the convergence algorithm demonstrates noticeably improved results by reducing the number of false-positive or false-negative CMCs in a comparison., (Published by Elsevier B.V.)

A mathematical simulation of the internal ballistics of a shot from a gun, depending on the design of the charge of the gun, has been performed. A general system of equations defining the unsteady movement of a two-phase gas–powder mixture in the channel of the barrel of a gun in the one-dimensional approximation is presented. Results of simulation of a shot from a gun charged with tubular powder or chopped powder are presented. The influence of the gradual ignition of a powder in a gun and of its nonstationary and erosion burning in it on the parameters of the ballistic process in the gun and the influence of the mass and disposition of an igniter in the gun on the dynamics of a shot from it were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article deals with Ballistic interpretation of gunshot traces by presenting the main theoretical and practical aspects, which are related to forensic ballistics, firearms, traces left by them and some elements of forensic tactics and technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sodium rhodizonate test is a simple colorimetric technique used to identify traces of lead and barium. A positive test provides rapid and photographically documentable results for shots fired at distances not exceeding 50 cm. Usually, this method is not used for identification of the firing hand, which is detected by electron microscopy with energy dispersive analysis (SEM-EDX), requiring the removal of any particles on the surface to be analyzed by STUB. The use of Sodium Rhodizonate, which is undoubtedly less selective, has the disadvantage of target element solubilization (lead and barium) and thus the loss of the preliminary morphological investigation of the particles. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that the two indicated methods can be considered complementary in the following order: 1. buffer sampling for electron microscopy investigation (STUB); 2. and subsequent performance of the Sodium Rhodizonate Test. In some special cases, when it is necessary to obtain the result more quickly, with regards to respecting the chronology of the aforementioned tests, it may be useful to carry out the Sodium Rhodizonate Test first, especially when particular and perhaps antiquated weapons were used for suicidal purposes causing considerable gas dispersion and shot residues from the mechanisms. This research illustrates how significant results were obtained substantiating the suicide hypothesis, following the use of an old revolver (year of manufacture around 1915-1920). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Problems of Mechatronics. Armament, Aviation, Safety Engineering / Problemy Mechatroniki. Uzbrojenie, lotnictwo, Inżynieria Bezpieczeństwa is the property of Index Copernicus International and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The wounding potential of a projectile depends on its kinetic energy. The aim of the study was to investigate the deceleration of non-deforming full metal jacket handgun bullets (FMJ) in gelatine blocks of increasing length. The temporary cavity (TC) was visualized using a SA-X2 Photron camera. 126 test shots in 9 mm nominal calibre were fired under strict temperature control conditions (4°C) at small gelatine blocks ranging from 2 to 12 cm in length. The deposited energy was calculated based on the loss of bullet velocity through high-speed video analysis. The length of the TC was measured, when the TC reached its maximum height. The volume of the TC was approximated by a cylinder. Regression analysis showed a linear correlation between the length of the bullet path and the energy transfer. The constant deceleration of the FMJ bullets in gelatine up to 12 cm bullet path was confirmed across various brands and velocity ranges (270–450 m/s). Higher impact velocities correlated with increased loss of energy in the target medium. The shape of the bullet tip influenced the characteristic of deceleration. The volume of the tubular temporary cavity, derived from high-speed video records, was found to be proportional to the energy transferred. The proposed approach might be a valuable tool in advancing wound ballistics research. • Deceleration of FMJ bullets proportional to bullet path in compact target models. • Higher impact velocities resulted in greater loss of energy in the target medium. • The shape of the bullet tip influenced the characteristic of deceleration. • Proportionality of the temporary cavity to the transferred energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Problems of Mechatronics. Armament, Aviation, Safety Engineering / Problemy Mechatroniki. Uzbrojenie, lotnictwo, Inżynieria Bezpieczeństwa is the property of Index Copernicus International and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The appearance of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) makes it possible for a material to possess both high strength and high ductility. It is with great potential to apply HEAs under extreme conditions such as in the penetration process. In this paper, experiments of WFeNiMo HEA and tungsten heavy alloy (WHA) projectiles penetrating medium-carbon steel were conducted by using the ballistic gun and two-stage light-gas gun that can accelerate projectiles to impact velocities ranging from 1162 m/s to 2130 m/s. Depth of penetration (DOP) at elevated impact velocities of HEA and WHA projectiles were obtained firstly. Combined with the macroscopic and microscopic analysis of the residual projectiles, the transition of the penetration mode of the WFeNiMo HEA projectile was identified systemically. The experimental results indicated that the penetration mode of the HEA projectile changes from self-sharpening to mushrooming with the increase of impact velocity, while for the WHA projectile, the penetration mode is always mushrooming. The microstructure of the residual HEA projectiles showed that the phases tangle with each other and the morphology of the microstructure of the phases differs in the two penetration modes. Besides, the evolution of shear bands and fractures varies in the two modes. The evolution of the microstructure of HEAs causes the sharp-pointed nose to disappear and the HEA projectile ultimately becomes blunt as the impact velocity increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-dimensional axisymmetric model, employing a dynamic mesh and user-defined functions, is used to numerically simulate the transient multiphase flow field produced by an underwater gun. Furthermore, a visualized shooting experiment platform with a high-speed camera is built to observe the evolution process of such a multiphase flow field. The simulated phase distribution diagram is agreed well with the shadow photo of the experiment, indicating that the numerical model is reasonable. Further examinations of the multiphase flow fields by using the submerged and sealed launch methods show that use of the sealed launch can significantly improve the interior ballistic performance of an underwater gun. In the cases by using these two types of underwater launch methods, the displacement of the projectile within the range of the muzzle flow field meets the exponential law over time. Moreover, a not fully developed bottle-shaped shock wave is formed when t = 0.4 ms, but this bottle-shaped shock wave expands more rapidly for the sealed launch. In addition, the amplitude of pressure oscillation for the sealed launch is larger than that of the submerged launch, but the pressure oscillation of the sealed launch lasts shorter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of the theoretical external ballistic calculations for projectiles fired from barrels which correspond to the barrels used in two Polish small arms systems: MSBS- 5.56 system (MSBS GROT standard rifle and MSBS GROT carbine) and BERYL system (BERYL standard rifle and MINI BERYL carbine). The results obtained allowed the analyse of the effects of barrel length and the associated initial projectile velocity on the nature of projectile trajectory, particularly the over height and projectile range obtained along the trajectories. The analysis of the results facilitated an assessment of the scope of proposed changes in the settings of the firearm sights, resulting from the use of barrels of different lengths and the consequential changes in projectile trajectory.

The ballistic performance, and behaviour, of an armour system is governed by two major sets of variables, geometrical and material. Of these, the consistency of performance, especially against small arms ammunition, will depend upon the consistency of the properties of the constituent materials. In a body armour system for example, fibre diameter, areal density of woven fabric, and bulk density of ceramic are examples of critical parameters and monitoring such parameters will form the backbone of associated quality control procedures. What is often overlooked, because it can fall into the User's domain, are the interfaces that exist between the various products; the carrier, the Soft Armour Insert (SAI), and the one or two hard armour plates (HAP1 and HAP2). This is especially true if the various products are sourced from different suppliers. There are between 30 and 150 individual layers within a typical body armour system, and each of the interfaces between each of those layers will, in some way or another, contribute to the ballistic performance of the system. For example, consider the following interfaces/interlayers: (i) the frictional, sliding, inter-ply surfaces within a soft armour pack, and also between the pack and the carrier, (ii) the air-gaps that may develop within the soft armour pack, (iii) the interconnecting space between the soft armour pack and the hard armour plate, (iv) the nature of the interfaces between adjacent plies of a multiplied backing laminate, even in a highly compressed Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) variant, (v) the interlayer between the ceramic and its substrate, within a HAP, and (vi) the geometrical fit between two hard armour plates within a stacked body armour system. This paper will provide a Userfriendly overview of all such interfaces and provide unique guidance as to their criticality and influence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a numerical and an analytical approach for calculation of internal ballistics parameters through determination of thermal and gasdynamic characteristics. The calculated parameters are validated through experimental tests on a real weapon system. The internal ballistic calculations are provided for two types of propellants using an analytical and a numerical model. Calculations and tests are performed for an anti-material rifle 12.7 mm. Weapon and ammunition testing is carried out according to the permanent international commission standard. Theoretical and experimental results for the gunpowder gases pressure and the muzzle velocity are compared. The good agreements between the calculated and the measured pressures and velocities increase the reliability of the estimated gunpowder gas temperatures in the barrel. The obtained results enable analysis and comparison of the output internal ballistics parameters for different types of propellant applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cranial firearm injuries (CFAIs) are expected to be frequent during warfare; however, it is becoming increasingly common among civilian population in our part of the world. These injuries are associated with significant morbidity and mortality in addition to financial loss. The objective of our study is to evaluate the pattern of gunshot injuries to cranium and their outcome. Methods: The study was conducted on 114 patients presenting with CFAIs to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan, between June 2015 and January 2019. Patients were evaluated with respect to age, gender, pattern of injury, Glasgow coma scale on arrival, radiological and clinical assessment, surgical intervention, and Glasgow outcome score measured at 6 months follow-up. Results: Among patients with cranial gunshot, injuries most were males (76.3%). More than 50% patients aged between 18 and 35 years. About 46.5% of patients presented with moderate traumatic brain injury commonly involving the temporal lobe (36.8%). Of total 114 patients, 84.2% were managed conservatively but wound debridement was done in all patients. At 6 months, the overall mortality in our patients was 33.3%. Patients with good outcome (GOS 4 and 5) were 30.7% and 35.9% patients had bad outcome (GOS 2 and 3). Complication rate was 14.9% and the most common complication was disseminated intravascular coagulation in 5.2%. Conclusion: Surgical intervention has no significant benefit over conservative management on long-term mortality and should be limited to patients with large intracranial hematomas and intraventricular hematomas causing hydrocephalus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deal with the comparison of relative wounding potential of guns, which we know from childhood, specifically blowpipe and slingshot. Many people played with these guns in childhood without knowing how dangerous these guns are. Because this area has not been examined enough, this paper focuses on it. The relative wounding potential is examined through an experimental method. This method is indirect and includes shooting to the replacement material, which was gelatine with a concentration of 20 %. Using a high-speed camera, the course of missiles in the target, from penetration to stopping, is recorded. The volume of the temporary cavity is determined by image analysis, and subsequently, the relative wounding potential is calculated. Other monitored parameters are the depth of penetration of the projectile and the impact velocity of the projectile. Then, it is possible to determine the transmitted kinetic energy of the projectile. The results should help to assess the dangers of these "children's" weapons and alert society to their risks. They can also serve to experts in the field of ballistics and forensic expertise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Thermal modification does not significantly change the ballistic performance of coastal western hemlock CLT. • Density and hardness do no fully encompass the energy absorbing capacity of CLT under small arms ballistic threats. • Empirically fit UFC partial penetration equation formulations fit treatment specific datasets with minimal error. • One global UFC partial penetration equation can be utilized for design with an appropriate safety factor. To test and understand the potential for integration of thermally modified coastal western hemlock CLT systems in military applications, 109 ballistic experiments were conducted at the United States Army Engineer Research Development Center's Fragmentation Simulation Facility. For a range of CLT thicknesses, the depth of penetration and residual velocities were recorded for different striking velocities utilizing a 0.50 caliber steel sphere projectile. This information was used to compare and add to the existing ballistics data for CLT, investigate the effects of thermal modification on high strain rate loading of wood, assess physics-based empirical design equations used by the Unified Facilities Criteria, and evaluate energy absorbing behavior at a range of thicknesses and striking velocities. The experimental results showed that thermal modification does not significantly alter the full and partial penetration performance of coastal western hemlock CLT. However, the mechanism of fracture along the path of the projectile differed, which indicates that the model parameters used in the UFC design equation (density, hardness, and projectile properties) may not fully encompass the ballistic failure mechanisms of CLT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The insufficient recognition of injuries by the BB-gun (regarded as toys for children) has led to its increasing misuse without permission, which has caused many public safety issues. Aiming to enhance the understanding of the injuries by the BB-gun, the experimental and numerical study of BB-Gun pellet penetrating "cowhide + gelatine" composite target was comprehensively carried out. It was confirmed from the experiment that BB-Gun is capable of inflicting severe or fatal wounds to important organs, and perforating the skin or not could be employed to evaluate the safety of BB-guns. Moreover, three forms of ballistic limit (including: velocity, kinetic energy and specific kinetic energy) of typical BB were calculated and analyzed by reasonably validated numerical simulation method. Additionally, a formulation was acquired by dimensional analysis based on the simulation results and was verified to accurately predict the ballistic limit velocity of BB with different mechanical properties. The method may help to improve the understanding on the minimal velocity needed to perforate skin and may be advised as the determination of the safety of BB-gun. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the effect of the chemical composition of .22LR bullets was studied and correlated to the extent and quality of the markings left after shooting them with the same gun. Scanning electron microscopy and optical comparator microscopy equipped with 3D and profilometry modules were used as non destructive techniques with two main purposes. The first is to assist the firearm examiner in the choice of the ammunition most suitable for preparing the test bullets. The second is to propose an approach, crossing data from optical microscopy, profilometry and space-resolved chemical analysis, for explaining the morphology of striae, whether continuous or interrupted. Among the most notable results is the finding that commercial .22LR ammunition show very wide interbrand, interlot and intralot variability. A selection of test ammunition solely based on the same brand and model used on the crime scene is therefore not suitable, urging the need for a more accurate choice, based on a preliminary chemical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population reduction or eradication of domestic or non-domestic species may be required to address their impacts on the environment, other species, or human interests. Firearms are often used to accomplish these practical management objectives, and there is increased concern that the methods used may compromise animal welfare. We document the accuracy and humaneness of gunshot placement to the brain and cervical vertebrae of Philippine deer (Rusa marianna) on Guam during depopulation activities as a model for meeting AVMA standards of euthanasia under field conditions (e.g., animal is not in hand). Deer were shot with a .223 caliber rifle from 10–125 m and approached immediately (<20 s) for assessment. A subset of adult deer was further evaluated for physiological responses including cessation of heart rate, respiration, ocular reflexes, and post-mortem spasms. All deer shot in the brain (n = 132) and upper cervical spine (C1—C3; n = 18) died immediately due to the destruction of the brain or spinal tissue. Shot placements were all within 1.9 cm of the point of aim (i.e., the center of the target region). The accuracy and immediate insensibility resulting from targeting of C1—C3 demonstrates that this is an alternative target site when animal positioning is not optimal for targeting the brain, or there is a need to preserve brain tissue (e.g., Chronic Wasting Disease testing). While targeting of C4 –C7 vertebrae (n = 6) was accurate and resulted in immediate incapacitation, the failure to produce immediate insensibility does not support the use of this shot placement when upper cervical or brain shot placement is an option. It is reasonable to achieve sufficient accuracy to target the brain or upper cervical vertebrae of deer under field conditions and meet standards of euthanasia while accomplishing management objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic models, also called "surrogates", are commonly used in wound ballistics in order to simulate human tissues. Despite several surrogates are worldwide accepted and used; some of them have not been yet fully validated and their limits for forensic reconstructions have not been deeply investigated yet. In this work we present a homicide/suicide case involving three gunshots to the head with bullets retained in the skull or beneath the scalp. Reconstruction of these cases was performed preparing three individual synthetic head models based on post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) measurements. Ballistic soap, polyurethane plates and 10% ballistic gelatine at 4°C were used as simulants in individually adapted thickness. Ballistic tests were performed using the questioned firearm and ammunition type. The damages on the synthetic models have been compared to the findings in PMCT and autopsy of the victims. Although the results highlighted general similarities in terms of injury characteristics, some of the experimental shots overpenetrated. Furthermore, the bullets recovered in the synthetic models did not show the same quality of deformations as the questioned bullets. This lack of bullet deformation in the synthetic models might be mainly attributed to the physical difference between real bones and polyurethane surrogate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gun violence is a global phenomenon with regional variation in frequency and severity. Handguns are often used in violent deaths such as suicides and homicides. Hence, ballistic trauma is a critical subject of forensic investigations. Trauma patterns are fundamental evidence for the reconstruction of the incident and for the determination of the manner of death. This study investigated the differences in trauma patterns with a series of experiments using six different calibers (.22 LR, .38 Special, .380 ACP, 9×19mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP) and four different bullet types. Synbone® spheres (polyurethane bone proxies) were used for close range 30cm simulated executions. The polyurethane spheres constitute an excellent proxy for human crania at the macroscopic level as suggested by other studies. The results showed that the radius of the entrance wound is positively correlated (Pearson's correlation coefficient R=0.846, p<0.05) with the caliber dimension. As muzzle velocity increased, endocranial beveling increased. Bullet weight, conversely, does not seem to have an effect on the size of the endocranial beveling present in Synbone® spheres. The ballistic experiments exhibited similarities in entrance wound morphology; radial and concentric fracture patterns, hydraulic burst effect, circumferential delamination, and endocranial beveling with that of documented forensic cases with corresponding caliber shot. Synbone spheres seem appropriate for ballistic simulations of cranial injuries; yet, more research is needed to verify these observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, concern over the use of lead-based ammunition for hunting has been growing, primarily due to consumption of discarded offal by scavengers and donated game meat for human consumption. While there are alternative bullet technologies on the market that are suitable for hunting, these alternatives have not been adequately researched and tested for use in professional wildlife damage management (WDM). Differences between hunting and WDM include an increased level of precision necessary for safe WDM work, potentially greater distances for shots fired at targets, a need for instant incapacitation, and overall cost-effectiveness. To determine the applicability of lead-free bullets for WDM, we reviewed current lead-free bullet technologies and examined their limitations and benefits based on ballistic theory and available research. We found that there has not been sufficient research or experience with lead-free ammunition in the unique shooting scenarios used in WDM. Some of the issues identified by our review include a reduced theoretical precision of lead-free bullets due to a mismatch between bullet length and twist rate of the rifle barrel, lower performance of lead-free ammunition at greater ranges compared with lead-based bullets, and greater chance of bullets passing through targets and striking a nontarget object or animal. While some of these deficiencies may be overcome with new equipment and decreased target ranges, there are still situations where lead-based ammunition may be the safest and most practical option.

A ballistic model-based method, which builds upon previous work by Lo and Ferguson [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 132, 2997-3017 (2012)], is described for ranging small arms fire using a single acoustic sensor node collocated with the target, without a priori knowledge of the muzzle speed and ballistic constant of the bullet except that they belong to a known two-dimensional parameter space. The method requires measurements of the differential time of arrival and differential angle of arrival of the muzzle blast and ballistic shock wave at the sensor node. Its performance is evaluated using both simulated and real data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gun violence continues to be a staggering and seemingly intractable issue in many communities. The prevalence of gun violence among the sub-population of individuals under court-ordered community supervision provides an opportunity for intervention using remote monitoring technology. Existing monitoring systems rely heavily on location-based monitoring methods, which have incomplete geographic coverage and do not provide information on illegal firearm use. This paper presents the first results demonstrating the feasibility of using wearable inertial sensors to recognize wrist movements and other signals corresponding to firearm usage. Data were collected from accelerometers worn on the wrists of subjects shooting a number of different firearms, conducting routine daily activities, and participating in activities and tasks that could be potentially confused with firearm discharges. A training sample was used to construct a combined detector and classifier for individual gunshots, which achieved a classification accuracy of 99.4 percent when tested against a hold-out sample of observations. These results suggest the feasibility of using inexpensive wearable sensors to detect firearm discharges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Civilian gunshot injuries from handgun and rifle ammunition vary in severity depending on the anatomic location involved and the different effects from the ballistic properties of the penetrating projectiles. Ballistic factors such as the impact velocity and energy should not be considered in isolation, as their specific effects are determined by the interaction between the projectile and tissues. Increased tissue damage can result from tumbling of non-deforming rifle bullets and deformation of expanding bullets. Both of these mechanisms increase substantially the energy transfer to the wound and its diameter, also producing a pulsating temporary cavity associated with pressure changes within tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper presents results of the preliminary studies at the recoil and weapon's jump of the automatic firearms. Studies include theoretical and experimental examination of that phenomenon. Theoretical part of the studies is based on the recoil and weapon's jump simulations of the chosen models of automatic firearms (MSBS-5,56). Experimental part of the studies includes shooting tests on the test stand -- designed and constructed specially for this purpose. This allowed verification of the simulation results. Gained data proved also that both the recoil and weapon jump are strongly affected by the moving parts of the automatic weapon. Further works will focus on comparing different design schemes in order to find an optimal design with the lowest recoil and weapon jump. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article deals with the ballistic analysis of pistol cartridge of calibre 9 mm Luger. As a basis of the analysis the standard cartridge with 8 g FMJ projectile was chosen. The aim of the analysis is to assess the effect of projectile mass change on basic ballistic characteristic of weapon-cartridge system during development of new types of projectiles. There is also explained possible utilisation of the obtained results with use of selected typical small arms cartridge in the end of the article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the method of determination of limit velocity for the aluminium alloy sheet metal from the airplane fuselage skin hit by a pistol projectile of calibre 9 mm with utilisation of 2D FEM model of interaction between the projectile and the sheet metal. The simulations are based on accomplished firing experiments and results are compared. The results of simulation can be utilised for prediction of level of damage of aircraft fuselage in case of firing on board of the plane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes a negative effect of size tolerance on the trigger characteristic. The trigger characteristic is the dependence of trigger force and trigger angle. An invalid trigger characteristic affects the accuracy of shooting and can be changed by not only proper choice of dimensions, but also the location of individual components. The paper shows an example of trigger mechanism that is designed as a Glock type mechanism. The solution for designers of small arms authors suggested the use of software MW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: For competitors in the shooting sports, gun recoil can affect performance and create discomfort. An objective method of measuring felt recoil forces would be useful to evaluate methods of recoil reduction. An experimental test apparatus was developed to measure recoil forces of sporting rifles and shotguns. No modifications to the firearms themselves were necessary to make the measurements. Through both inertial and dissipative restraint mechanisms, the apparatus reproduced gun movement that was representative of that experienced by a particular shooter. This should result in measured recoil forces similar to those experienced by the shooter. The apparatus measures the horizontal shoulder force and the vertical force component exerted at the stock comb. The recoil event was found to be quite short, having duration on the order of 10ms. Peak recoil forces for common shotgun target loads were in the range of 1.6–2.2kN (360–494lbf). The apparatus was found sensitive enough to measure recoil force differences among different factory loaded ammunition, and differences in recoil force imparted by different firearms shooting the same ammunition. The apparatus should prove useful for quantifying differences in felt recoil as affected by ammunition type, gunstock geometry, barrel porting, recoil reduction devices, and gun weight, among other factors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The main motivation of this work is to clarify whether the hopes of significantly improving the performance of the conventional guns by using plasma ignition have a realistic basis. We assessed the possibility of improving the whole interior ballistic process, its repeatability and safety, through a uniform propellant ignition. In addition, we planed to improve the gun performance [the projectile muzzle energy (velocity)] by "forcing" "cold" charges to perform as "hot" ones (achieving "temperature compensation"). All of these goals are intended to be accomplished by using reasonable electrical energies (which would allow the reduction of the mass and volume of the power supply). We also avoided any significant changes in the conventional gun topography in order to prevent unacceptable costs. The presented research program proved that by using a standard 105-mm gun (concerning its barrel length and charge chamber volume) and a standard propellant, improved performances (more than 28% in the projectile muzzle energy) can be achieved while dense charges are used. In addition, significant reduction of the important effect, the "temperature gradient," is obtained. The capacity of plasma as the ignition factor to provide ballistic gain has also been demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Greenhill''s Rule for estimating rifling twist in artillery and small arms is interesting both because of its simplicity and longevity. This article describes (a) Greenhill''s Simplified Rule for estimating the twist of rifling; (b) describes his original, more complete, but much less known Rule; (c) summarizes how he got the Rule; and (d) relates it to the modern stability factor. Some comments about twist, bullet stability, and black powder velocities are presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper is based upon the observation that, when a bullet is fired, it creates characteristic markings on the cartridge case and projectile. From these markings, over 30 different features can be distinguished, which, in combination, produce a ‘fingerprint’ for a firearm. By analyzing features within such a set of firearm fingerprints, it will be possible to identify not only the type and model of a firearm, but also each and every individual weapon just as effectively as human fingerprint identification. A new analytic system based on the fast Fourier transform for identifying projectile specimens by the line-scan imaging technique is proposed in this paper. This paper develops optical, photonic, and mechanical techniques to map the topography of the surfaces of forensic projectiles for the purpose of identification. Experiments discussed in this paper are performed on images acquired from 16 various weapons. Experimental results show that the proposed system can be used for firearm identification efficiently and precisely through digitizing and analyzing the fired projectiles specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The National Institute of Standards and Technology Standard Reference Material (SRM) 2460/2461 standard bullets and casings project will provide support to firearms examiners and to the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) in the United States. The SRM bullet is designed as both a virtual and a physical bullet profile signature standard. The virtual standard is a set of six digitized bullet profile signatures originally traced from six master bullets fired at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). By using the virtual signature standard to control the tool path on a numerically controlled diamond turning machine, 40 SRM bullets were pro-duced. A profile signature measurement system was established for the SRM bul-lets. The profile signature differences are quantified by the maximum of the cross correlation function and by the signature difference between pairs of compared profile signatures measured on different SRM bullets. Initial measurement results showed high reproducibility for both the measurement system and production process of the SRM bullets. A traceability scheme has been proposed to establish the measurement traceability for nationwide bullet signature measurements to NIST, ATF and FBI. Prototype SRM casings have also been developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on a study which examined long-range ballistics to highlight the launch parameters of importance to electromagnetic gun designers. Atmospheric effects; Launcher energy limitations; Subcaliber projectiles; Conclusions.

Focuses on a study that presented comparisons between high and low density cases for a number of ballistic parameters. Overview of the approach used to increase kinetic energy in the electrothermal-chemical guns in the United States; Description of gun system; Sensitivity to parameter changes; Conclusions.

• Small and medium arms fire can be stopped with a snow-based protective structure. • Snow-filled commercial gabions can be efficiently constructed. • Structures can be construction at a rate of about 0.5 hr/m3 with common equipment. • Snow set-up time of 24 h is recommended. • All but one model of projectile penetration in snow matched our results within 32%. Small (5.56 mm, 7.62 mm and 9 mm) and medium (12.7 mm) arms rounds were fired at snow-filled 1.5m cubic gabions in a mid-winter condition in Fairbanks, Alaska. The rounds were excavated and penetration by each ammunition type was measured. A distribution and average of penetration depth was determined. All 320 rounds fired were captured within 1.5m after entering the snow barrier. Comparison with published models of ballistics penetration of snow showed mixed results with several matching our data within 10% and all but one within 32%. However, most of these models are simplistic in that they accommodate limited variables and therefore may not be expected to perform well in all settings. We conclude that snow-based ballistics protection structures can be quickly and efficiently erected in suitable environments and with minimal size, can provide reliable protection against small and medium arms fire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluation of cartridge cases is essential within forensic ballistic analysis and is used in an attempt to establish a connection to the weapon used to fire it. This study consists of two experiments. The aims of Experiment 1 were to establish whether micro-CT is appropriate and repeatable for ballistic cartridge case analysis and if measurements can be extracted repeatably and reliably. Experiment 2 aimed to compare cartridge cases from two weapons to establish the magnitude of variation within and between weapons. A total of 48 cartridge cases fired by two distinct weapons were collected and micro-CT scanned to a high resolution. One randomly selected cartridge was scanned ten times under the same conditions to ensure repeatability of the scanning conditions in Experiment 1. Three novel measurements to quantitatively assess the firing pin impressions were proposed in Experiment 1 and comparatively analysed from two weapons in Experiment 2. Experiment 1 showed that micro-CT is an effective and highly repeatable and reliable method for 3-dimensional imaging and measurement of ballistic cartridge cases. Furthermore, high agreement for inter-rater reliability was found between five raters. Quantitative micro-CT analysis of the firing pin impression measurements in Experiment 2 showed a significant difference between the two studied weapons using Welch's t-test (p < 0.01). This study shows the advantage and reliability of utilising micro-CT for firing pin impression analysis. Quantitation of the firing pin impression allows distinction between the weapons studied. With expansion to further weapons, application of this methodology could complement current analysis techniques through classification models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]